A Woman’s Guide to Vaginal Yeast Infection

A recent study reveals that about 75% of women will suffer a vaginal yeast infection ultimately in their lifetime, and up to 45% of those women will have double yeast infections. Sadly, this is a daunting prospect, particularly if you’ve had one before — it’s not something you’d like to experience again. Thankfully, you can make various dietary and lifestyle changes to prevent a yeast infection. However, when something disrupts that balance, a fungus called candida develops out of control and induces a yeast infection. Although yeast infections can happen to anyone abruptly, certain things make getting them more likely. This article broadly discusses all women must know about vaginal yeast infection. From what it means, its causes, and symptoms, to the risk factors and prevention. Let’s delve into detail!

What Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Also called vaginal candidiasis, a vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection. It causes discharge, irritation, and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva (the tissues at the vaginal opening). As previously stated, vaginal yeast infection affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some time in their lifetimes. Most women experience at least two episodes. Usually, a vaginal yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection. But simultaneously, there is a heightened risk of contracting a vaginal yeast infection during the first regular sexual activity. In addition, there is also some indication that infections may be associated with mouth-to-genital contact (oral-genital sex). It is noteworthy that you can treat vaginal yeast infections effectively with over-the-counter yeast infection treatments, especially if you are positive that you have the infection. These treatments prevent the fungi from spreading and worsening the situation. It’s usually advisable to consult a healthcare provider to make sure you’re buying the right treatment or maintenance plan. Having understood this, let’s examine what causes vaginal yeast infection.

Causes of Vaginal Yeast Infection

Most vaginal yeast infections are induced by the fungus candida albicans. As indicated earlier, the vagina typically contains a proportional mix of yeast, including bacteria and candida. However, when the balance is disrupted, an overgrowth of the fungus – candida albicans occurs and this results in a vaginal yeast infection. Other causes of vaginal yeast infection include the following:

• Impaired immune system because of certain medications or conditions such as HIV infection
• Intake of oral contraceptives or hormone therapy that increases estrogen levels
• Antibiotic use, causing an imbalance in natural vaginal floral
• Pregnancy
• Uncontrolled diabetes

It is crucial to note that yeast infections induced by other types of candida fungus can be more problematic to treat, and generally need more-aggressive therapies.

Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infection

Vaginal yeast infection symptoms can range from mild to moderate, and they include:

• Burning sensation, particularly while urinating or during sexual intercourse
• Irritation and throbbing in the vagina and vulva
• Redness and swelling of the vulva
• Vaginal rashes
• Coarse, white, odorless vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance
• Vaginal soreness and pain

Other symptoms of complicated yeast infections include the following:

• Extensive redness of the vagina, and
• Swelling and itching, leading to cracks, sores, or tears.

Risk Factors of a Vaginal Yeast Infection

Some of the factors that increase your risk of developing a yeast infection include the following:

1. Antibiotic Use

Women with an increased intake of antibiotics are susceptible to yeast infections. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which kill a  vast range of bacteria, also kill the vagina’s healthy and natural bacteria. Thus, it causes an overgrowth of yeast.

2. Increased Estrogen Levels

Higher estrogen levels pose the risks of vaginal yeast infection. This means, women with higher estrogen levels, such as pregnant women or women taking estrogen hormone therapy are prone to the risks of vaginal yeast infection.

3. Uncontrolled Diabetes

Women with poorly regulated blood sugar are at tremendous risk of yeast infections than women with well-controlled blood sugar.

4. Impaired Immune System

Women with defective or lowered immunity, such as from HIV infection or corticosteroid therapy or are more likely to get yeast infections.

When to See a Doctor

You can make an appointment with a healthcare provider if:

• It is your first time having a vaginal yeast infection
• You are skeptical about having a yeast infection
• The symptoms are not relieved after treating with over-the-counter yeast infection treatments, soothing cream for yeast infections, or other suppositories
• You develop other symptoms, such as the complicated ones mentioned above.

Prevention of Vaginal Yeast Infections

To reduce your risk of vaginal yeast infections, it is best to wear underwear with cotton crotches and those that don’t fit too tightly. It might also help to avoid the following:

• Tight-fitting pantyhose
• Scented feminine products, such as pads, tampons, bubble baths, and many more
• Staying in wet clothes, such as swimsuits and workout attire, for extended periods
• Douching, which removes some of the natural and healthy vagina bacteria that protect you from infection
• Hot tubs and very hot baths
• Needless antibiotic use for colds or other viral infections

Conclusion

Yeast infections are inevitable and widespread occurrences. However, immediate yeast infection medication and treatment can help reduce the uncomfortable symptoms within a few days. Also, recognizing your risk factors can help prevent future infections. Should you have recurring vaginal yeast infections, lasting more than a month, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vaginal Yeast Infections

1. Who Is Susceptible to Vaginal infections?

Anyone with a vagina can develop a yeast infection. Certain factors can put you at a higher risk of having a yeast infection, but not that, yeast infections are highly treatable.

2. How Long Do Vaginal Yeast Infections Last?

Most mild and moderate yeast infections clear up with medication in a few days, and sometimes, in a week. More complicated cases may last longer and take longer to treat. Ensure you use the medication as directed and don’t stop taking it too soon, as the infection may elope again.

3. Can a Vaginal Yeast Infection Leave without Medications?

No. A Vaginal yeast infection can’t go away on its own. Only medications that destroy fungus (yeast) can treat a vaginal yeast infection effectively.